Passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on Thursday May 22, 2025 at Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry at the age of 64 years.  Cherished wife of Brian Hadden and devoted Mom of Curtis (Victoria) and Mitchell (Suzanne).  MeeMaw will always be loved and remembered by James, Emily and Rory.  Also survived by her parents Joyce (Pollard) and Magil Darnley, her siblings; Debbie De Jong (Rick), Denise Hoskin (Brian) and Magil Darnley (Janice), brother-in-law; Paul, sisters-in-law; Ann Gordon (Donald) and Joy Miller (Jim) and by her large extended family.

Although Darlene had several careers including real estate sales, stock exchange clerical work, interior design and decorating, and managing Brian’s optometric practice, she was first and foremost a mother to her two sons, whom she adored and loved so much.  She worked tirelessly to ensure they had the perfect childhood and was proud of the men they grew up to be.

Devoted not only to her family, she gave so much to others.  She served as Secretary of the Sunderland Lions Music Festival for many years, organized countless fundraising concerts for Wick Church, and shared her love of musical theatre both onstage as a performer, or as a choreographer or stage manager for many productions with the Scugog Choral Society, Beaverton Town Hall Players, and Sunderland Lions Community Theatre groups.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at Low & Low Funeral Home, 1763 Reach Street, Port Perry on Friday May 30, 2025 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM.  A memorial service to honour Darlene’s life will be held at Wick Presbyterian Church, 1295 Concession 2, Sunderland on Saturday May 31, 2025 at 1:00 PM with reception to follow.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Oak Ridges Hospice for their care and compassion during her final days.  Likewise they wish to thank Dr. Wray for all of her guidance throughout the entirety of her palliative journey.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry would be appreciated.  Friend are invited to extend condolences or make donations by visiting www.lowandlow.ca